The Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia will feature extra time if the match is tied after regulation. If the extra time period also ends in a draw, the match will be decided by penalty kicks.
The highly anticipated Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia on Sunday will feature extra time if the match is tied after regulation. This marks a departure from the knockout stage of the tournament, where matches went straight to penalty kicks if tied after 90 minutes.
The decision to implement extra time in the final aligns with the tournament's traditional format. In previous editions of the Copa América, extra time has been included in the final match. It provides an opportunity for teams to settle the contest on the field before resorting to penalty kicks.
Extra time has played a significant role in determining the outcome of past Copa América finals. In the 2015 final, Chile defeated Argentina on penalty kicks after the match ended in a 0-0 draw following extra time. Similarly, in the 2011 final, Uruguay emerged victorious over Paraguay after a 3-0 victory in extra time.
The introduction of extra time in the Copa América final adds an additional element of drama and excitement. Both Argentina and Colombia possess talented and determined squads, so a closely contested match is expected.
Extra time provides both teams an opportunity to showcase their attacking prowess and resilience. It also allows for tactical adjustments and substitutions as managers seek to gain an advantage.
If the match remains tied after extra time, the outcome will be decided by penalty kicks. This scenario is familiar to both Argentina and Colombia, as both teams have advanced to the final stages of previous tournaments through penalty shootouts.
Argentina has a strong record in penalty kicks, having won nine out of 13 shootouts in international competitions. Colombia, on the other hand, has a mixed record, winning six out of 11 shootouts.
The return of extra time in the Copa América final ensures that the tournament will conclude with a dramatic and thrilling contest. The possibility of penalty kicks adds an additional layer of uncertainty and anticipation. Both Argentina and Colombia will be eager to emerge victorious and claim the prestigious Copa América trophy.
